What makes the Exposition different from other train shows?
The WRE is a celebration of modeling and railway history with the primary event being an “RPM” (Railway Prototype Modeler) style meet with model displays, clinics, and displays from manufacturers and historical associations. Added on to the show are train rides and tours of the Waterloo Central Railways, an exclusive Saturday evening banquet with keynote speaker, and to top things off, an Sunday steam excursion.
What is the Railway Prototype Modelers (RPM) movement all about?
The Railway Prototype Modeler movement is a celebration of the art of model railroading. Attendees are invited to bring along models (finished or in progress) for display at the show. There are no contests, no model judging and no flea market tables, just a chance to share and enjoy different forms of modeling and meet and learn from other modelers.
Do I have to register in advance to attend?
No, you can purchase entry tickets to the show at the door, however you may wish to register early to take advantage of early-bird pricing on any all-inclusive packages, and the Saturday banquet requires advance registration.
What is included with my registration?
Entry to the RPM show includes access to the show and all clinic presentations. Train rides and the Saturday night banquet are “extra fare” items, but combination packages are available via our Registration page when registration opens.
Where can I park?
Free parking is available at the hotel venue.
Where can I get food?
Food is not provided a the event directly, however there are several nearby sit-down and fast-food restaurants. See In the Area.
How do I become a vendor at the show?
See our Vendors page for more information.
How can I become a show sponsor?
See our Sponsors page for more information.
Are the venues accessible?
The hotel venue for the train show and clinics is wheel-chair accessible.
While the Waterloo Central Railway makes every effort to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, the train operates with historical equipment that may not meet modern accessibility standards and the WCR does not currently have the capability to lift a wheelchair into the vestibule of the coach with a guest seated in it. If our guest can be assisted out of the chair and into the coach, we will be able to help with boarding and disembarking from the train.
The WCR restoration shop is not wheelchair accessible.
Are there other attractions in the area for family members?
The WRE venue is located across the street from the famous St Jacobs Farmers’ Market, which is open on Saturdays. A pair of antiques markets and outlet stores are also located in the immediate vicinity. See In the Area.
Can I get there using public transit?
Two Grand River Transit bus routes stop near the WRE venue:
Route 19A – Hazel to St Jacobs Market
Catch it from the University of Waterloo “ION” LRT Station, and it has a stop right in front of the hotel.
Route 21 – Elmira
Catch it from Conestoga Mall (making connections from ION LRT and/or other bus routes). You have to walk up the block from the Farmers Market, but it’s close. It also stops by the Waterloo Central Farmers Market station.
Taking VIA Rail/GO Transit in from out of town? From the train station, walk or grab a bus two blocks west on Victoria Street to the ION LRT Central Station on King Street. Take the LRT north to University of Waterloo or bus Route 7 to Conestoga Mall to connect with the above mentioned routes.
Grand River Transit System Map (bus and light rail routes)